Green Economy North, a program of reThink Green, hosted its Regional Business Forum on Thursday. This year’s event was titled: ‘Building the Future’ and focused on the development of a greener building sector in northeastern Ontario

Like many other parts of the country, northern Ontario is experiencing a housing shortage. As different sectors gear up to try and build more homes, reThink Green wants to make sure those involved are up to date on sustainable construction strategies and practices. The organization provides programs, events and platforms for businesses and municipalities to share knowledge related to environmental sustainability.

Green Economy North organized a regional business forum in Greater Sudbury on Thursday, and scores participated from across northeast Ontario and online. Speakers from the Independent Electricity System Operator, Enbridge, Smart Commute Sudbury and the Northern Homes Energy Assessment program delivered presentations during the event. 

Michael Cullen, the director of Community Partnerships at Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North, shared stories and experiences of building affordable rentals in Greater Sudbury and other northern communities. His talk focused on the potential of modular and panelized homes — a post-war technology he believes needs to be revisited.